Symbolism in the Bible: Finale (Chris and Randy)

We spent the past few months looking at some of the most common symbols in the Bible.  Through that journey, we have seen how Biblical writers – and God himself – used these symbols to help communicate a deeper meaning in the story.  By understanding the meaning of the symbols, we have gained a deeper understanding of God’s work in the world. Today, we will recap these lessons and ask once more what we can learn about God and ourselves in the process.

Listen to Symbolism in the Bible Finale
Lesson Plan

Symbolism in the Bible: Fire (Randy)

Like water and blood, Biblical writers used fire to symbolize God’s work in the world, ranging from affliction and punishment (no fire), judgement (raging fire), salvation and sanctification (cleansing fire), and eternal life (empowering fire). In this lesson, we explore some of these instances and draw out what they mean to our lives today.

Listen to the Symbolism of Fire
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Symbolism in the Bible: The Cross (Chris)

Tim Keller teaches that the Cross represents the complete inversion of the world’s reality vs. God’s reality.  Through the cross, Christ won by losing.  As Paul noted earlier in 1 Corinthians, Jesus gave up everything that the world values (life, power, and honor) for the sake of what God values (obedience, sacrifice, and love).  Of course, any symbol has its limits.  It represents something rather than being the something itself.  We do not worship the Cross, we worship the Christ of the Cross.  As Paul said, “For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified.”  [1 Corinthians 2:2]

Listen to the Symbolism of the Cross
Lesson Plan